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Good spring rains to set up above average yields

Monday, 7 September 2009

The outlook for South Australian crops is looking optimistic, according to the latest State Government crop and pasture report.

The report confirms that good rains during July and warmer temperatures in August have enabled crops in most districts to grow rapidly.

Apart from the Murray Mallee districts, stored soil moisture is now good in most other areas, however favourable spring weather is needed to realise current crop yield potential.

The PIRSA Grains’ September report, compiled by Rural Solutions SA, says if good spring rains occur over the next couple of months, the State could receive above average yields.

Report author Peter Fulwood says while the current yield potential of the crop is estimated to be slightly above the long-term average at 6.5 million tonnes, this will be dependent on adequate and timely spring rainfall.
 
“Despite strong to gale force winds during August causing leaf tipping to moisture-stressed crops in drier areas, there has been no reduction in the intended crop area at 4.02 million hectares,” he said.

Growing season rainfall to date (April-August) ranges from above average on much of Western Eyre Peninsula, Yorke Peninsula and Kangaroo Island to below average in the Northern Murray Mallee.

“Crops in most districts have continued to grow rapidly with the exception of parts of Eastern Eyre Peninsula, the Upper North and Murray Mallee where below average rainfall has seen crops struggling,” Mr Fulwood said.

“Waterlogged conditions in a few southern districts have also caused patches of crop to be affected.”

He said the majority of cereals are now at jointing to mid booting, with the earliest now flowering.

The full report is available at www.pir.sa.gov.au/cropreport.